Byron and all it’s charm is becoming an increasingly more attractive summer sojourn. Each time I visit I become a little more hooked on the turmeric juice at Bayleaf, a little more comfortable stretching out at the Byron Yoga Centre and a little more content watching the sunset on main beach. If a new joint isn’t springing up there’s an old one being spruced up so there’s always something fresh to check out.
The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa is only an hour flight from Sydney and offers something you can’t get anywhere else in Byron so close to town. Not only does it have private access to the beach but you have to walk through the most majestic rainforest to get there.
The suites are quite understated on the outside, located on secluded blocks, concealed by the surrounding 45 acres of lush green tropical rainforest. However, from the inside, it’s all luxury. Settle in by taking a Ikou salt bath soak and listen to the wild Tallow Beach swell competing with the hums of native birds on your balcony. It’s a fantastic way to start your weekend.
Then stroll the private boardwalk stroll to the beachfront. It’s at this point you don’t really feel like you’re in Byron. Completely quiet and secluded, you get your own little piece of the paradise.
Do yourself a favour and book in for a massage as I did on day one. Then up the anti on day two and book an Ocean Embrace spa treatment. I love a treatment here or there but I never get the full package. This time I went all out, head to toe. If a stimulating body brush couldn’t get me across the line the idea of a sea kelp cocoon had me sold on the experience. On top of this – they give you a mini facial, a scalp massage, foot soak and hair mask. You’ll walk out feeling softer, lighter and nourished.
If spa treatments don’t float your Byron boat then you can always elect for the more spiritual therapies on offer such as esoteric healing or tarot card readings. No doubt they will tell you that your future is bright (at least for the next few days at this resort).
Where to Eat & Drink in Byron
Byron restaurants are famous for supporting local growers and in turn, most places are consistently changing their menus to suit seasonal produce available. Here are some of my top picks.
The Restaurant at The Byron at Byron Resort
If you’re staying at the resort you’ll be pleased to know the restaurant there is just as good as their exclusive beach access. It’s famous for its paddock-to-plate philosophy. Resort guests can even head down to the Byron Bay Farmers Market on a Thursday morning and tour with the chef himself, Gavin Hughes.
The Roadhouse
If you’ve had enough of blissful boardwalks, laying by the pool and being driven around in their signature buggies, then grab a resort bicycle and ride around town. Or if you have a car you can venture a little further and mosey on down to The Roadhouse and order a Kombucha cocktail – yes I’m asking you to add mould to your cocktail! My tip – swap the vodka for mescal
Stop off at The Top Shop
The Top Shop
You know how they say take only memories, leave only footsteps? Well does a bum groove in the ground count? Is that within the guidelines? Because you may find an imprint of mine there on the grass outside The Top Shop. It’s a popular cafe that’s rather delicious and has the best coffee in town.
Stone and Wood
Stone and Wood boutique beers appear to have of taken over Byron Bay. They’re so good that they can’t keep up with demand – that’s why you don’t see it often anywhere outside of the Bay. Stop off at their brewery at Boronia Place for some local chorizo and try their cloudy and beautifully golden Pacific Ale.
The Farm Byron Bay
The Farm and I are officially in a long distance relationship. You really do need to go a few times to appreciate everything on offer. The Farm is owned by the chefs from Three Blue Ducks in Bronte Beach. Here they take the paddock-to-plate philosophy to new heights. They collect and use rainwater from the roof, all fish are line caught, they treat and reuse all septic waste on site and all produce is gathered within a 500km radius. They also serve nose to tail style dining. By purchasing and breaking down whole pigs and steers themselves they offer everything from black pudding to beef rib eyes. They also have a range of events each week which you can take a look at HERE It’s quite the experience!
The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa has a range of weekend accommodation packages with everything from a Three Day Bryon Break to Babymoons and Girls Getaways.
For more information click here:
www.thebyronatbyron.com.au/
www.byronfarmersmarket.com.au/
www.byronyoga.com/
byronbaycafebar.com.au/
stoneandwood.com.au/
The Top Shop: 65 Carlyle St, Byron Bay NSW 2481
Bayleaf café: 2 Marvell St, Byron Bay NSW 2481